-- By Zoey
First time in England is always a charm. Upon our first arrival in Durham, we had a tour around the city and we were all stunned by its beauty. Similar to Durham in North Carolina, there is a university located inside the city-- Durham University. Besides that, Durham is a quaint little town filled with flowers, music, and history. There is a castle and a cathedral, both over 800 years old. As early as the medieval period, Durham gained its spiritual prominence because of the final resting place of St. Cuthbert and St. Bede. in Durham Cathedral. Now, Durham is a booming city in education, service and technology, attracting students, tourists and companies from all over the world.
This Wednesday, we were invited to a panel in the city of Durham Town Hall. We met the major of the City of Durham, Mayor Jon Robinson, the Vice Chancellor of Durham University, Professor Christopher Higgins, and some other professors as well as the council members. Interestingly, we found out that the Mayor of Durham carries a fifteen-man bodyguard which was primarily used to collect taxes and protect the City against Scottish raiders. Apart from the Mayor of Durham, this level of men-at-arms status is only enjoyed by the Mayor of London.
One thing during the conversation that particularly struck me was the significance of history to Durham. As the Mayor said, " Durham has the tenacity to remain the sense of place and identity." This reminds me of the Miner's Gala last Saturday. Just as Durham NC, Durham UK also once had a key industry that dominated the economy. It is coal mining. There were hundreds of mining pits scattered around Durham area and every year, villagers from different pits would march down to the city with their respective banners. Political speeches would be made. People would drink and celebrate. Even though the mining industry has completely subsidized in Durham, the Miner's Gala continues and evolves into a unique culture scene in Durham.
One thing during the conversation that particularly struck me was the significance of history to Durham. As the Mayor said, " Durham has the tenacity to remain the sense of place and identity." This reminds me of the Miner's Gala last Saturday. Just as Durham NC, Durham UK also once had a key industry that dominated the economy. It is coal mining. There were hundreds of mining pits scattered around Durham area and every year, villagers from different pits would march down to the city with their respective banners. Political speeches would be made. People would drink and celebrate. Even though the mining industry has completely subsidized in Durham, the Miner's Gala continues and evolves into a unique culture scene in Durham.
The future of Durham lies in a sustainable economy for half a million population. The collaboration between the university and the city council has produced great results. The NETpark provides a great medium for technology-driven development. It also encourages innovation and attract companies to set base in Durham. This aligns with the goal of diversification. There is also great diversity inside the city. There is a prominent Japanese community and Chinese community. Durham, with all the past prosper and glory, is marching forward at a dazzling pace.